Bulimia
"Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by frequent episodes of binge eating, followed by frantic efforts to avoid gaining weight. "Classified as an eating disorder.

Signs and Symptoms


  • "Calluses or scares on the knuckles or hands from sticking fingers down the throat to induce vomiting."
  • "Puffy "chipmunk cheeks caused by a repeating vomiting."
  • "Discolored teeth from exposure to stomach acid when throwing up, may look yellow, raged, or clear.
  • Not underweight or some what over weight is associated with bulimia. Being under weight while purging could hint at a purging type of anorexia.
  • Frequent fluctuations in weight may happen because of alternating episodes of bingeing and purging.


Causes
  • Poor body image
  • Low self-esteem
  • History of trauma or abuse
  • Major life changes
  • Appearance-orientated professions or activities


It is not genetic and scientifically has not been found to be something that is able to be inherited. However as researchers explore bulimia evidence shows the likelihood that there is a hereditary component to the disease.

Treatments & Therapy
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Medication
  • Psychotherapy
  • Cognitive therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Hospitalization

Perspective
  • Mostly teenagers and young adult females
  • About 10% in males
  • Last for a few weeks or few months
  • May reoccur
  • Can last for years without disturbance


Can be diagnosed by five strands of hair analyzing the carbon and nitrogen levels in the hair.






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Links:
Anorexia




Smith, Melinda, and Sarah Kovatch. "Bulimia Nervosa: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment, and Help." Helpguide.org: Expert, Ad-free Articles Help Empower You with Knowledge, Support & Hope. HelpGuide.Org, June 2011. Web. 15 Sept. 2011. <http://helpguide.org/mental/bulimia_signs_symptoms_causes_treatment.htm>.

Magill's Medical Guide: Volume 1 : a - Cor / 409-410. Pasadena, Calif: Salem Press, 2008. Print.

"Is Bulimia a Hereditary Illness?: Researchers Believe That Eating Disorders Run in Families | Suite101.com." Suite101.com: Online Magazine and Writers' Network. Web. 15 Sept. 2011. <http://www.suite101.com/content/is-bulimia-a-hereditary-illness-a48654>.